Anarchist political theory holds that efforts to achieve an optimal balance between individual autonomy and a psychological sense of community are often hindered rather than helped by institutionalized legal principles and practices. Despite law's dominance, echoes of earlier forms of social organization, more in keeping with optimal well- being, may be identified in legal doctrines related to such topics as the distinction between law and equity, jury nullification, and the ninth amendment, all of which have been subject to much criticism. Thus, psychological jurisprudence should give special attention to the work of community psychologists who emphasize empowerment, decentralized solutions to community problems, and diversity. Further attention should also focus on the way in which the legal system comes to be perceived as legitimate. Thus, incorporating into psychological jurisprudence the anarchist dual focus on individual autonomy and psychological sense of community can be useful, particularly in aiding efforts to bring about social justice. 80 references (Author abstract modified)